Navigating college choice: the influence of parental education, advice source, and anticipated belonging

Pittman, Ravon

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129967 Copy

Description

Title

Navigating college choice: the influence of parental education, advice source, and anticipated belonging

Author(s)

Pittman, Ravon

Issue Date

2025-07-22

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Khuri , Lydia

Committee Member(s)

• Napolitano, Chris
• Ratner , Kaylin

Department of Study

Educational Psychology

Discipline

Educational Psychology

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

College Choice

Abstract

This study examined how students' anticipated sense of belonging at prospective postsecondary institutions is associated with their parents’ highest level of education, and whether this relationship is moderated by the source of college advice. Data from a diverse sample of high school students in Illinois (N = 234) were analyzed using linear regression models. Results showed parental education alone did not significantly predict students anticipated belonging. Students who relied on formal advice sources (counselors, teachers, mentors) reported significantly higher anticipated belonging at match schools compared to those who received informal advice (family or peers). However, no significant interaction was found between parental education and advice source. Results highlight the importance of formal advising in strengthening students’ academic self-perception and sense of institutional fit. Implications for reducing college undermatch and expanding equitable access to supportive advising networks are discussed.

Graduation Semester

2025-08

Type of Resource

Thesis

Handle URL

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129967

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2025 Ravon Pittman

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